Hunting And Outdoor SportsGun Culture And Society
Viral hunting video leads to charges for Mitchell businessman
Viral hunting video leads to charges for Mitchell businessman
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✍️By ZRIntel Editorial Team📍Mitchell, South Dakota
In a troubling incident capturing widespread attention, charges have been leveled against Mitchell businessman Cory Cumings after a viral video emerged of him aggressively instructing his 12-year-old son during the pheasant hunting season opener weekend in South Dakota. The incident raises serious questions regarding the responsibilities of adults in teaching youth about firearms and hunting practices. The Aurora County indictment filed against Cumings includes two separate counts of possession of a firearm by a person with a prior felony drug conviction, both classified as Class 6 felonies. Interestingly, these incidents are said to have occurred prior to the viral video between June 1 and August 31, 2025. Additionally, Cumings has been charged with one count of child abuse, classified as a Class 4 felony. The shocking video, which was initially posted by Cumings on Snapchat, went viral, showcasing the businessman repeatedly yelling at his son to fire a shotgun. In his emphatic outbursts, Cumings used profanity, insulted his son, and made threats to abandon him during the hunt. The clip subsequently garnered more than 72,000 views, prompting extensive reactions on social media and leading to multiple calls to local law enforcement agencies. Following the public outrage, the Aurora County Sheriffs Department launched an investigation, since the alleged abusive incident occurred on Cumings property near Mount Vernon. In a curious twist, the conversation around the video shifted when Cumings spoke with The Mitchell Republic, describing the video as "rage baiting" intended to provoke reactions online. This methodology raises questions about accountability and the implications of such declarations in the age of social media. This isn't the only cloud hanging over Cumings; he is also navigating a separate federal case at the U.S. District Court, where he faces charges for unlawfully possessing over 100 firearms and ammunition. This serious accusation follows a raid carried out on Cumings roofing business and his residence back in December 2023. In that case, Cumings has pleaded not guilty to one count of possession of a firearm by a prohibited person, with his trial scheduled for December. As per South Dakota law, Cumings is already prohibited from owning firearms due to prior convictions, including a felony drug offense for possession of marijuana. The law mandates a five-year prohibition for individuals with such convictions to legally possess firearms, enhancing the complexity of Cumings legal situation. The implications of Cumings' situation extend beyond personal consequences; they underscore a more extensive conversation around hunting ethics, parental responsibilities, and the use of firearms in youth education. As gun ownership becomes increasingly scrutinized, especially following incidents like these, the firearm community is urged to reflect on the portrayal and teachings surrounding firearm usage. Responsible hunting practices not only set an example for younger generations but play a vital role in maintaining public perception of the hunting community as a whole. Should Cumings be convicted, he faces severe penalties, including a possible sentence of up to 15 years in federal prison, along with a fine of $250,000 and a term of supervised release. Furthermore, the proceedings may lead to restitution orders and continued federal forfeiture of the firearms in question. Overall, this incident not only highlights the legal ramifications of improper conduct in the context of youth sports but also speaks volumes about the cultural intersection of hunting, firearms ownership, and social media oversight. With the growing narrative around responsible gun ownership, time will tell how this case impacts the broader conversation regarding hunting ethics and child involvement in outdoor activities.